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Let us hope that the New Year will bring peace to Malaysia, Asean and the world.

There are still many troubled spots in the world. We pray that a Palestinian-Israeli summit for a just peaceful will take place, putting an end to the endless sufferings in the Middle East and that the Indonesian Government will be able to solve the strife in the country.

Malaysian politics is changing inexorably. Never again will we see the insufferable arrogance of UMNO. Despite the continued manifestations of ethnic politiking, we are seeing the trend towards multiracialism and 'two-party system'. Nevertheless, non-Muslims will not accept having 'Islamic State' ramming down their throat.

We need a reform of Parliament and Civil Service. Hitherto, ministers and backbenchers ignore the function of parliament to hold the system of government to account. The Prime Minister prefers to excel himself in televisions such as Astro and world forums at the expense of Parliament. Meanwhile, ministers scarcely control their departments and the Civil Service takes over virtually.

A new chief justice has taken over. Malaysians hope that there will be a review of all aspects of the judiciary.

Although the Government claims that our economy has recovered, there are still difficulties in many sectors. The electronic manufacturing does well. But, sectors such as retailed trade and construction are struggling. The Government would have to show that it is serious about corporate restructuring. The restructuring of Renong-UEM, the buying of 29.09% MAS equity by the Government at RM 8 per share while the market value is just over RM 3 and the floating of RM 6 billion government bonds to restructure Light Rail Transit and the public transport system make the people suspicious.
Are there massive bail-outs?

Let us hope that the Government put the RM 14.4 billion budget allocation for education into good use. Although it is the biggest allocation, it does not mean that the Government will use it properly. While it is necessary to build more universities and to enroll more students, it is essential to maintain and upgrade the standard.

The Government's lack of consistency in dealing with Suqui and Vision School is glaring. Unless it can show that it is fair to all races, that it is credible in its pledge to maintain the character of Chinese and Tamil schools and that it will not abuse rights and privileges, people will continue to be disaffected.

Malaysia continues to witness drug abuse, domestic violence, relative lack of protection of women and worker's rights as well as the destruction of the environment. Let us hope that the New Year will change these.

 Dr Tan Seng Giaw